Tensions

Tensions stand for ‘extensions’ because they extend previously existing chords, like seventh chords. Tensions expand chord structure from 4 note structures to up to 7 note structures. They provide color, flavor, and emotion. Some people call them spices. They add a new meaning and depth to seventh chords. Tensions provide a richer, more lush experience for the listener. They add a layer of fun, depth and creativity for the musician. Because of their existence, the music is more dynamic, unique and just plain better. They are essential tools for any musician who wants to develop composition and improvisation. They are most common in blues, jazz, latin, modern, fusion and funk. This course has 16 videos - over 4 hours of step by step instruction and a comprehensive workbook to develop both your playing and writing.

This class is for you if:

• You are ready to move beyond Triads & Seventh Chords.

• You want to add the depth of your personality to your music.

• You want to add dimensionality and layers to your sound.

• You are ready build more dynamic movement within your creation.

• You want to evoke emotion within your listener.

• You are excited to expand composition and/or improvisation.

Course Requirements:

1. Have a good understanding and usage of Triads & Seventh Chords.

2. Have intermediate knowledge of your instrument. We present everything on piano, but the goal is to translate this into whatever instrument you play or use to compose.

3. Knowledge of music notation.

Module 1: Welcome to Tensions

• Breath Introduction

• Test Drive with TRIADS & SEVENTH CHORDS

• Results of the tests and how to read them

• Invite to TENSIONS COURSE

Module 2: Tension 9th

• How to Build Tension 9th

• 5 Note Structure Build from Any Key

• Notes = Intervals

• Inversions of the Tension 9th

• 1st Approach

• 2nd Approach

• 3rd Approach

• Tips and Guidance

• All the Insight

Module 3: C Min 7 with Tension 9th

• Breakdown

• The First Look

• Inversions with Tension 9th

• Introduction of Chord Layers

• Special Chords with Tension 9th

• Using Chord Layers

• Tips & Guidance

Module 4: Tension 9th as Spice

• Breakdown of the Spice Method

• Using Tension 9th with C Min 7

• Inversions of the C Min 7

• Specific Guidance

Module 5: Tension 9th Music Sheet

• WRITTEN DOWN TENSION 9th

• Breakdown of the Chord Build

• How to Write Inversions

• Special Chords with Tensions 9th in Writing

• Inversions with Special Chords

• WRITTEN Tension 9th as SPICE

• Guidance and Tips

Module 6: Tension 11th

• Introduction of the Tension 11th

• Fundamental Concept Tension 11th

• The Interval Exchange Tension 11th

• Use of Tension 11th

• Looking for Inversions Tension 11th

• Inside of the Tension 11th

Module 7: Tension 11th as Spice

• Easy Way of Using Spices

• Breakdown of the Method

• Other Chords with Tension 11th

• Tips & Guidance

• Real Example with TENSION 11th

• You Become the Sound, the TONE

Module 8: Tension 11th in Writing

• Break Down of the TENSION 11th on Paper

• Intervalic Relationships

• Inversions

• Relationships We Should Avoid

• Examples of Intervals What Don’t Work

• Using Balance in Music To Create Harmony

Module 9: Tension 13th

• Introduction

• Fundamental Build Breakdown

• Seeing Tensions as Intervals

• Using Intervals to Build Chords

• Testing Different Chords

• Inside of Tension 13th

Module 10: Chords Tryout for Tension 13th

• Applying Tension 13th with Different Chords

• Inside of the Chord Build with Tension 13th

• Intervalic Relationships Inside Each Chord

• Inversions with Tension 13th

• Ways to Practice

• Tips & Guidance

Module 11: Spice Selection

• Select Your Spices Carefully

• Examples of Spices

• The Best Way of Seeing Tensions

• Tips & Guidance

Module 12: Sheet Music Tension 13th

• Written Down Tensions

• Visual Manifestation of Tensions in Music

• Inversions with Spices

• Function and Placements of the Spices

• Logic Behind the Science

Module 13: Special Tensions Music Sheet

• Introduction of Special Tensions on Music Sheet

• Breakdown of the Special Tensions/ b9 and #9

• Build and Use of Special Tensions

• When Do We Use Them?

• Tension 11th as a SPECIAL TENSION / #11

• The Influence of the Special Tensions

Module 14: Tension 13th as Special Tension

• Introduction of Tensions b13 Music Sheet

• How to Use it and When To Use it

• Collection of Special Tensions / b9 #9 #11 b13

• Examples of Special Tensions and Their Function in Music

Module 15: Special Tensions on Piano

• Introduction of Special Tensions on piano

• Breakdown of the Special Tensions/ b9 and #9

• Build and Use of Special Tensions

• Tension #11

• Tension b13

• Inversions

Module 16: Special Tensions in Modern Music

• Use more then one Tension at the Time

• Grouping of Tensions

• What Works What Doesn’t

• Breakdown of the C7 Alt Chord

• Final Thoughts

Bonus - Tensions Workbook

$127 Lifetime Access

Or 3 monthly payments of $49

Or check out our Chord World Bundle: Triads, Seventh Chords & Tensions for just $160! That’s 50% off the single course pricing.

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